by Amy Wellner

Created on: June 12, 2010

College students are in a unique time in life and because of this, college ministries can be highly effective. College students are open-minded. They are away from their parents and on their own, able to make their own decisions on everything from what to eat to what to believe. Students have tons of free time to check out campus organizations, and tons of time to hang out.

There are incredible advantages to getting involved in a Christian ministry on a college campus. There are a number of different ministries that provide community and fellowship, opportunities to serve others and challenges to experience that will develop your faith.

One of the world’s largest Christian evangelical organizations is Campus Crusade for Christ. Founded in 1951 at the UCLA campus by Bill and Vonette Bright, Campus Crusade has grown to an international mission organization with spiritual movements all over the world.

I got involved in Campus Crusade as a freshman. My very first day on campus, I met students from the organization.. Now two years out of college, I am eternally grateful for my days involved with Campus Crusade. I came to faith in Christ through a staff member with Campus Crusade, and now have a ministry of my own using the skills I learned in ministry on campus.

Along with a discovering how to have a personal relationship with God, I also gained valuable skills that I will take with me into my career. I learned how to work in a team of unique individuals from various backgrounds and opinions. I was also able to refine and develop the skills I already in areas of information and database management, and graphic design.

Through my involvement in campus ministry, I also discovered a passion for helping others succeed in their ministry roles, which lead to pursuing a degree of Human Resource Management.

Not only did my involvement in Campus Crusade benefit me in great ways, it also led me to meet amazing people. I am still friends with the people that I met that first day on campus six years ago. These are lifelong friendships, unified by a passion for missions and faith in God.

There are also advantages for students who are already Christians. Campus ministries provide a opportunity for Christians to meet and encourage one another. (And let’s not forget the potential to meet a future spouse!) Activities with campus ministries also keep Christians out of trouble. They provide accountability for students who may struggle with negative aspects of college like peer pressure, drugs, alcohol and premarital sex. Christians can also be held accountable from good actions that might have negative consequences, like legalism or a hypocritical and judging attitude.

Visit www.campuscrusadeforchrist.com for more information about getting involved in campus ministry. With over 25,000 staff worldwide, there is a good chance to connect with a ministry near you.

Learn more about this author, Amy Wellner.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.